IS 2212 : 1991

Indian Stan&d
BRICK WORKS-CODE OF PRACTICE
( First Revision )

First ReprintOCIOBER1998
UDC 693-22006-76

Q BIS 1991

BUREAU OF INDIAN STANDARDS

MANAK BHAVAN, 9 BAHADUR SHAH ZAFAR MARO
NEW DELHI lMNlO2

octokr 1991
Building Construction Practices Sectional Committee, CED 13

FOREWORD

This Indian Standard ( First Revision ) was adopted by the Bureau of Indian Standards, after the draft
finalized by the Building Construction Practices Sectional Committee had been approved by the Civil
Engineering Division Council.
This standard was first published in 1962. In this revision types of bricks mentioned in the Table 1 have
been modified to bring it in line with IS 1077 : 1991 Common burnt clay building bricks (jiiiir revision ).
Further the materials to be used for mortar have been modified on the basis of IS 2250 : 1981 Code
of practice for preparation and use of masonry mortwa ( jirst rmision ).
Figures showing a typical arrangement of cut-brick in a corner has been modified to show the normal
practice adopted by Central Public Works Department and other organizations.
The provisions of this standard do not limit its application to cases where only modular bricks are used; on
the other hand, they can be applied with equal advantage to traditional bricks constructions as well as
special size brick constructions. It is considered that this unified approach in the standard will be parti-
cularly advantageous during the period of transition from traditional brick construction to modular brick
construction resulting in significant saving in bricks, mortar and labour.
it may be noted that the requirements bearing directly QII the dimensions of bricks have been so worded
as to be applicable both to modular and traditional bricks. For example, when the requirements for thick-
ness of wall is stated as one brick this will mean 20 cm nominal thickness in case of modular brick and
9 ineh nominal thickness in the case of traditional brick of size 9 in x 44 in x 3 in.
This standard is intended chiefly to cover the technical provision relating to brickwork and it does not cover
all the necessary provisions of a contract,
This standard is one of a series of Indian Standards codes of practice covering masonry. Other standards
in the series cover stone masonry and concrete block masonry.
For the purpose of deciding whether a particular requirement of this standard is complied with, the final
value, observed or calculated, expressing the result of a test or analysis, shall be rounded off in accordance
with IS 2 : 1960 Rules for rounding off numerical values ( revised ). The number of significant places
retained in the rounded off value should be the same as that of the specified value in this standard.
 Indian Standard
BRICK WORKS - CODE OF PRACTICE
( First Revision)
1 SCOPE Footings - A projecting course or courses formed
at the base of a wall to spread the load.
1.1 This standard covers the construction of brick H6dV- A brick laid with its length across the
masonry in general and the erection of brick wall.
walls in particular. Ind6nting- The leaving of reccsscs into which
1.2 Only masonry with clay bricks is dealt with future work can be bonded.
in this standard. Use of unburnt bricks ( kacMu Jamb - The part of the wall at the side of an
bricks ) and use of mud mortar arc notrpccifically opening.
covered in thii standard.
Joint - A junction of bricks.
B6d Joint - Horizontal joint in brickwork or
masonry.
The Indian Standards listed in Anncz A are CrossJoint - A joint other than a bed point nor-
necessary adjucts to this zuuxhud. mal to the wall face.
3 TERMINOLOGY Jointing - The operation of finishing joints as the
masonry work proceeds ( s6# ah 6.5.2 ).
3iO For the purpose of this code, the following
JKominal Thicktussof a Wall - Thir ia the thickness
definitions shall apply.
of wall that is stated in the cztimatcs for calcula-
tion of quantities. It iz a gCCtitiOd dimension,
3.1 General
which is neither the actual thicknas of wall cz-
eluding rurfacc finishes like pla&cr, rtndwing, ctc,
Bsam Fiui?lg - The filJing of the gap between the nor necessarily the overall thickness including
ceiling level and the wall bearing level excluding such iinishcs. The following example will illustrate
portions occupied by beams, r&em, etc. this point:
BOnd- The arrangement of the bricks in succcs- %&Jl Actual
sive courses tie the brickwork together both TtiknatJ Thieknus
longitudinally and transversely; ,the arrangement For traditional brick
is usually daigncd to ensure that no vertical joint of 9 in length ( with
of one coume is ezactly over the one in the nezt allowance of f: in
course above or below it, and there is the greatest for mortar joint ):
possible amount of lap,
One-brick wall 9 in 84 to 8f in
coping O? w6Oth6TiUg - The applied over or
cover 1i-brick wall 134 13 to 134 in
the geometrical form given to a part of
structure in
to enable it to shed rain-water. P-brick wall 18 in 17) to 173
Corba - A cantilcvcr projecting from the face of in
awailtoformabearing. For modular brick ( with
allowance of 1 cm for
Co&6 - Horizontal ornamental feature projcct- mortar joint ):
ing from the face of a wall.
One-brick wall 20 cm 19 cm
COWS6 - A layer of bricks including bed mortar. Ii-brick wall 30 cm 29 cm
2-brick wall 4Ocm 39 cm
Damp-proof~urs6 - A layer of impervious mate-
rial laid or inserted in a structure to arrest the Parapet - A solid or pierced guard wall for flat
permeation of dampness. terrace of a balcony ( or a bridge ) or a curb wall
at the lower part of a pitched roof, which is cx-
E&OT6666nC6~- A powdery encrustment of salts left
posed to atmosphere on face, back and top.
by evaporation. This may be visible on the aurfacc
or may bc below surface. In the latter case, this is Prrpsnd - An alignment of cross joints whicn can
termed as crypto-florescence. be checked with a plumb line.

1
 IS 2212 I 199k

Pointing - The operation of finishing joints subs+

quent to the completion of masonry .( see
also 6.5.3 ).

Pro& - A guide used for setting out brickwork

accurately.

Quoin - An external corner in brickwork; the

term may also denote the masonry unit based to
form the quoin.

Racking Back - Stepping of the unfinished end of

the wall masonry.
1A Squint

Rrvcal - The visible part of each side of a recess

or opening of a wall.

Slef&er Wall - A dwarf wall usually honeycombed

to carry a plate or sleeper supporting a joisted
floor.

Squint - A brick of special shape used at an

obligue quoin ( see Fig. 1A ),

Stretcher - A brick laid with its length in the

direction of wall.
1B Bevelled Closer
Tuothing - Bricks left projecting in alternate
courses to bond with future work.

3.2 Materials

Bat - Any portion of a brick, cut or broken across

its length usually known according to its fraction
from the whole size, for example, l/2-bats, 3/4
bats, etc.

Closet - Part of a brick either manufactured or

cut from a whole brick and used to maintain
bond.
1C King Closer

Bevelled Closer - Illustrated in Fig. 1B.

King Closer - Illustrated in Fig. 1C.

Queen Closer - Illustrated in Fig. 1 D.

Facing Bricks - Bricks which, being exposed to

view as in the case of unplastered surfaces, are
required to have pleasing appearance, sufficient
resistance to penetrations by rain and greater
durability than common bricks.

Flashing - A sheet of impervious material fixed

to a structure so as to cover an intersection or
1D Queen Closer
joint where water will otherwise leak through.
L - Length of modular brick
W = Width of modular brick
lemplet - A pattern of sheet metal used as aguide H = Height of modular brick
for setting out specific section and shape, FIG. 1 DIFFBRJZNT
TYPES OF PART-BRICKS

2
 IS 2212 I 1991

Temjhte or Bad Block - A block of stone or con- hearths, flues and chimneys in the brick-
crete bedded on a wall to distribute the pressure work.
from a concentrated load.
4.2 All information as in 4.1 shall be made avail-
3.3 Tools and Accessories able to those who are responsible for the masonry
work. Necessary drawings and instructions for
3.3.1 Tools required for brick masonry work, such planning the work shall be furnished.
as plumb line, rules, straight edges, trowels, etc,
4.3 Arrangements shall also be made for the
are described in IS 1630 : 1984.
proper exchange of information between those
3.3.2 Scafolding and Staging engaged in masonry work and all those whose
work will affect or will be affected.
These are temporary frame works commonly of
bamboo, timber or tubular /steel, having verticals, 5 MATERIALS
horizontals and diagonal braces secured or leashed
together with nails, ropes or other types of faste-
5.1 Bricks
ners, such as clamps. These are used for support-
ing ramps and working platforms from which the
construction work at higher levels is carried out. 5.1.1 Unless specified otherwise, burnt-clay bricks
Scaffoldings are of two types, namely, single and used shall conform to IS 1077 : 1991. Heavy duty
double scaffolding. Single scaffolding consists of a brick as per IS 2180 : 1991 shall be used when
row of verticals connected to walls by horizontals the building is subjected to very heavy loading.
sup rted on and tied to the structure. Double
sea tF
olding consists of two rows of verticals secured 5.2 Mortar8
or leashed together with horizontal and diagonal
bracings, forming essentially a structure indepen- Mortars for masonry shall be prep&red in accord-
dent of the building. It may, however, be also ance with IS 2250 : 1981. The ingredients used
connected $0 the structure at convenient points in mortar shall conform to the requirements speci-
for the sake of better stability. fied in 5.2.1 to 5.2.6,

3.3.3 Storey Rods 5.2.1 Cement

These are battens of wood running one ormore
Cement used for brick masonry shall conform to
floor heights and having permanent markings
IS 269 : 1976 or IS 455 : 1976 or IS 1489 : 1976
corresponding to the location of brick courses at
or IS 3466 : 1968 or IS 8041 : 1978 or IS 8043 :
various heights and of all openings, sills, lintels, 1978.
sun-shades and similar features occurring in the
floors.
5.2.2 Lime
4 NECESSARY INFORMATION
Lime used for brick masonry shall conform to
4.1 For efficient planning, design and execution IS 712 : 1984.
of the work, detailed information with ragard to
the following shall be furnished to those responsi- NOTE - Hydraulic and remi-hydraulic limes corres-
ble for the work: ponding to Claaa A. B and E of IS 712 : 1984 are
;onve&ntly availabie for use in masonry mortars,
Layout plans showing the orientation of the whereas fat limea, corresponding to Clau C and D will
4 require mixing of burnt clay poazolana and other
structure;
pozzolanic material, Clalls C and D limer may also be
Dimensioned details of the structure with used with addition of cement and pozzolanic material.
4 Quick lime &all never, be 4 for, $vctural purpose.
details of sections ( to a suitably large scale It mmt be slacked first. Slacking at rite shall be done in
that is l/20 or 1 cm = 20 cm ), levels of accordance with IS 1635 : 1975.
foundations, finished ground levels, clear
floor to floor heights of rooms, sizes of
5.2.3 Lime Potzolana h&ture
openings, etc.
4 Type and class of brickwork, types of bond Lime pozzolana mixture used for brick masonry
and final finish for the brickwork; the mixes shall conform to IS 4098 : 1983.
of mortar to be used, etc; full size.details of
architectural features, mouldings and other
5.2.4 Pozrolana
special work.

4 Location and other details of openings, 5.2.4.1 Calcined clay pozzolana shall conform to
chases, embedmdnts of service lines, such as IS 1344: 1981.
for water supply, cirainage, electrical instal-
latiods, etc; and location and details of 5.2.4.2 Fly ash shall conform to IS 3812 : 1981.

2
is 2212 I 1991

5.23 Pin8 Aggrega& d) 0th~ suitable There shall be made of

metal 6Grce- rtructural steel conform-
Sand rhall conform to IS 2116 : 1980. ment, such u ing to IS 226 : 1975
galvanized hoop
5.2.6 Water iron
Water used for making masonry mortar8 shall be 6 DESIGN CONSIDBMTIONS
clean and free from injurious quantities of delete-
rious matcriah. Potable water ir generally conri- 6.1 Selection of Bricka
dmd satirfactory for use in masonry mortar, For
further requirements regarding limits of deletcriour 6.1-l For use in various situationa of brick.
materiala permitkd in water, reference may be masonry, the brick shall be selected in accordance
made to IS 456 : 1978. with Table 1.
6.13 When the requirementa for strength of
5.3 M~torhla for Damp-proof Couner masonry predominate in the particular rituation
of use, the brickr shall be of such grade ( SM IS
Materiala for damp roof cottr~s ahal1 be specified 1877 : 1991 aa to give the nquired strength for
to conform to one o F the relevant Indian Stand- masonry an d shall be selected in accordance with
ards or other rquirementr rtated below: their relevant provisions of IS 1905 : 1987.
6.2 &laction of Mortars
4 Bituminour felts for Conforming to
waterproofing and IS 1322 : 1982 6.24 Mortars used for brick masonry shall con-
dampproofiing form generally to IS 2256 : 1981.
Bituminona com- Conforming to 6.2.2 The selection of mortar will alno be gover-,
pound8 for water- IS 1580 : 1969 ned by the strength required for masonry and
pmoting p*parer reference may be made in IS 1905 : 1987 for
Mortar or concrete Conforrmxlgto knowing the suitability of combination of various
cl types of mortars and grad- of bricks for different
for UC in damp u.1.1
proof course strengths required for the masonry.

4 Stone rlab for 6.3 Types of Bonds aad Their Saltability

daWT-%f .
zEhrnhg to
6.3.1 The primary object of bond is to give
5.4 MUerial# forFl8ahin#8nd Weatbtring strength to ma,xnuy, but it may also be employed
to create artistic effects when the brickwork ia
cxpoaed to view.
These shall be specified to conform to one of the
relevant Indian Standards stated below: The types of bonds generally in use, their charac-
teristics and situations of USC are described in
a) Lad Flashbg Conforming to IS 405 Table 2.
Part 2 ) :1977and the
L cknerr shall be bct- 63.2 In brickwork the cross joints in any course
ween 1.6 and 2 mm, shall not be nearer than a quarter of brick
length from those in the course below or above it.
b). Bihmimw Falts ~x&rming to IS 1322 :
6.3 Thicknesm of Joint

6.4.1 No bed joint shall be thicker than 12 mm.

5.5 Motd Reid-omt Further the thickness of the bed joints shall be
tuch that four coursat and three joints taken con-
Metal, reinforcement for use in brick masonry secutively shall measure aa follows:
rhall be tpcciiied to conform to one of the rcle- a) In the case of Equal to four times the
vant Indian Standarda stated below: traditional bricks actual thickness of the
brick plus 3 cm
a) Mild steel or Conforming to IS 432
medium tensile (Part I&and 2):1982 b) In the case of Equal to 39 cm
steel bars modular bricks
conforming to
b) Steel fabric or Conforming to IS 1566 :
IS 1077 : 1991
hard-drawn steel 1982
wiri: 6.5 Finishing of Joints
c) Expauded metal ~gm$orming to IS 412 : 6.5.1 The face jolts of brickwork may be finished
by jointing or by pointing.
 IS 2212I 1991

Tablo1 S&ctioaofBdldingEaickm
( tihnua6.1.1 )

Clam 125 common bricka Briclu ,haR be free from

(*1077:1991) minor defect8 ruch an
chipa at the edge of cor-
ners. Colour and texture
may also be specified ifw,
required
2. 8) Subiect to *em he8w IIe8-u~ duty ( u) IS 2190 :
loding - -
b) Requiring 8 high rub- do
tance to W8wr penetm-
tion

3. 8) Plinths and foundations Cl- 125 orc;kur 7.5

below corn anon ( SCI
d8mz. ps! IS 1077 : 1991 )
zEzlFan?E chance
of continu81 wetting in
foundation8

b) Plinth and foundatiam do The bricka shall be free

behw from eilloretcence. They
coune- m#$zEzz shall 81~0not have any ralt
table at 8 hiih level content which will affect
the mortar of the muonry,
The bricks may preferably
be the denest available
with the minimum water
8korption

8) External walls, neither Clam 125 common kicks The b&L &all preferably The exposed joints shall be
plutered nor rendered (su IS 1077 : 1991 ) be of uniform colour pointed with 8 dense water
on the outer face tight mormr

b) External waib iiniahed Clan 75 or better quality For ritu8tionr expooed to

on both facea with 8 common bricks ( su IS severe weather ( MT
water-tight plarter or 1077 : 1991 ) Table S ) only Class 125
rendering common bricks shall be
used u in4(8).

Internal walk Clam 75 common bricks Clw S-5 common brick,

( SWIS 1077 : 1991) alro may be connidered for
UM, provided they ratisfy
the mqulrementa for tire-
ngth ( UI IS 1077 : 1991 )
For wallr which are liable
to be frequently in contact
with water ruch u in bath-
rooms, only Clus 7.5 or
better bricks shall be used

6. Free standing walls, p8r8- Cl- 125 common bricks A deme water-tight mortar
pea (WI IS 1077: 1991) rhall be ured for the maso-
nry. Parapet1 rhall prefer-
ably be finished on all
rider with 8 watertight
plutCr

5
is22l2: 1991

Table 2 Common Types of Bonds for Brickw<itk and Sitndonm of Their Use
( Claws 63.1 )

Types ot Bond c%amct*tia BitEdon or Use Remark

2.
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5)

1. English -Bond The briclc in the facing are The bond.contributeI sub- Leu efficient hondr may
IsId in alternate courses stantially td the strength alro be succenfully used
ofbeaden and stretchers of brickwork, and may be for obtaining strength
( SM Fig. 2 ). The header particularly suitable for provided the mortar is
coucxe is commenced wall1 carrying heavy strong
with a quoin header load8
followed by a queen clo-
mr and continued with
ruccutive headen. The
stretcher course ir formed
of c&etchers having a
minimum tap of one-
quarter their length aver
the header

2. Double Flemish Bond The courses both in the The appearance on the Though conridered inferior
facing and in the backing face may be considered in strength than English
are formed with alteroa- M more uniform than in bond, this bond may be
ting stretcher1 and head- Englbh bond. Requirer ruitable for Gngle-brick
en. In order to obtain less number of facin thick wdls in normal
the lap ( which ir equal bricks than English borJ house construction provi-
to one-quarter the length and hence may be ewno- ded a Itrong mortar, such
of the brickr,) a queen mica1 where brickwork ia 88 cement mortar, is
Closer is introduced next faced with Ipecial facing used
to the quoio header in brick1 and exposed to
qlterrute courws, the view
intervening onea com-
mencing with a stretcher
and every header will
obtain a location that is
central with respect to
the stretcher above or
below ( JMFig. 3 )

3. Single Flemish Bond This f+ciiitates, the facing
of tbe wall to bc in Fle-
mish bond and the beck-
ing in English bond. Thia
will entail use of snap
headers ( SICFig. 4 )
This attempta to combiie
partially the better appe-
arance of Flemish bond,
with the better rtrength
of English bond. However,
increue in strength over
Double Flemish bond is
doubtful

4. Garden Wall Bond English garden wall bond
( ste Fig, 5 ) conaiatr of a
header course with the
necessary queen closer
next to quoin header to
three or sometimer even
five stretcher course8 run-
ning in series with over-
lap of half-brick between
stretcher over stretcher
One-brick thick walls are
eaaier to construct with
these bonds than with
pure Flemish or English
bondr and save facing
bricks conniderably in the
c-e of exposed work

Flemish garden wall

bond
( ste Fig. 6 ) consists of
alternate rourles compo-
red of one header to
three sometimes even
five stretchera in rerier
throughout the length of
the couraea

5. American Bondtiia& Co;;FieLdz fz%& ,,oL For general use Commonly adopted in
known as America. The number
Bond ) number of stretcher of stretcher courses may
courses vary from five to Seven
( Continurd)

6
 I8 2312 ::I991

Table 2 ( Co&rd )

moo of Road c&roete8i8tic8 8itEdoB Of the Rework8

(1) (2) (3) (4) (5)

6, Strrtcber Bond In tbio bond ( ru Fig. 8 ) Used in i-brick thick

oil th8 cowI*, are Itret- ie8vea of c8vity mllr
char COUTWO8ad the
ovriog ir wurlly b8lf
b&k md Ir obt8iaed by
commondog e8ch &or-
nate OOWMwith l half-
bat

Wirb eli&t modifhtion at

tbr Quoia tbo OVerl8P
mrybo v8riod to*or*
b&k 8od the bond i8
tbea kmwa lfekieg Strrt-
char Bad

7. Reader Bead The foe of tbia bond Uaed for w8llr curved on
( ICIPig.
YJ ) h8a 811 the p18o for better 8lign-
CourMa 88 b88dera only ment; 8nd preferably in
8od the ovsrl8p. whit b is found8tion footinga of
half the width of the brick brick masonry for better
is oborined by introduc- transverse didbution
ing 8 threeqwrter b8t
in arch 8itern8te course
8t quoina

NOTES

1 Seval other rpeci81 bon& 8re 8180 in vogue, ruch u Monk Bond, Dutch Bond, Englirh Cram Bond 8nd mixed
bond8 of v8riour typa which give different utistic egectr so far 8s appeuance ir concerned.
2 The boa& dewribed above h8vr been developed lugely M 8 result ofthe traditional 9 in x 44 in x 3 in bricks,
but 811h8ve ken found to be suitrble for modular briclrr of rise 20 cm x 10 cm x 10 cm. In the course of use of
mod&r bricb mor8 bonb m8y be evolved for giving improved function81 chu8cteristic.r to the m8sonry.

SE 0

FIG. 2 ENGLISH BOND

IS 2212t 1991

Fro. 3 DOUBLBFLBMISEBOER)

FIG. 4 SINGLE FL~MISEIBOND

FIQ. 5 EN~LXSEGARDENWALL km

Fxa. 6 FLBMISHGARDEN
WALL BOND

9
IS 2212 : MB1

FIQ. 7 Amcm BOND

r SLATE CLOSURE TO JAM6

PLAN OF COURSE B

I I I I I I

I I I I I 1
PLAN OF COURSE A

ELEVATION
NOTE - Urn of Stretcher bond in cavity well comtructioo is illurtreted here.

FIG. 8 STRBTC~
BR BOND

10
 PLAN OF COURSEA

ELEVATION
Fxa. 9 HBADBRBOND

6.32 In jointing, either the face joints of the

mortar ahall be worked out while atill green to FLUSH JOINT
give a finished surface flush with the face of the
brickwork, or the joints shall be squarely raked
out to a depth of 10 mm while the mortar is still
greenforr uent plastering. The facea of brick-
work shall ubYl
be caned with wire brush so as to
remove any splashes of mortar during the course WEATHERED
JOINT
of raishmg the brickwork.
6.5.3 In pointing, the joints shall be squarely
raked out to a de th of 15 mm while the mortar
is still green an x the raked joints ahall be well KEYED
brushed to remove dust and loose particle and JOINT
well wetted, and shall be later completely refilled
with mortar to give the required finish. Some such
finishes are flush, weathered, (tucked, ruled,
etc ( se6 Fig. 10 ).
TUCKED
NOTE - Pointingwill offer facilitiw for introducing in
the face joints a mortar specially prepared with regard JOINT
to composition, colour, etc.

6.6 StmeturaI and Functlonol Characteria-

ticm of Brickwork
6.6.1 &rueturalStability and Strength RULED JOINT

Reference may be made to IS 1904 : 1986 and

IS 1905 : 1987 for design with regard to structu-
ral stability.
6.6.2 Resistance to Moisture Penetration
6.6.2.1 Rain water penetrates solid brickwork
either through cracks or through the body of the FIG. 10 DIFFBRBNT
TYPESOFPOMINQ FINISHES
bricks or mortar. Unrendred walls permit more FORBRICKWORK

11
I8 2212 t 1991

water to pass through than rendered walls, and 6.6.3 Thermal ,!3resm
therefore shall not be relied on to give protection
from rain except under sheltered or moderate The coefficients linear expansion of bricks vary
conditions. from 5 x 10-s to 11 x 10-s per degree Centi-
grade. Variations of temperature tend to produce
linear changes in walls which, when restrained,
6.6.2.2 Resistance to rain penetration will be may lead to internal stress resulting in cracks
incrased by rendering which prevents the access especially when the walls exceed 30 m ( 100 feet ).
of water through the joints of brickwork except The effects of these stresses shall be taken into
in small quantities passed through by capillary consideration for .a proper design.
action. Rendered walls are, therefore, suitable for
severe conditions provided other requirements, 6.6.4 Control of Shrinkage Cracking
such as sufficient thickness, use of satisfactory
6.6.4.1 When bricks having a drying shrinkage of
materials,, and workmanship are also satisfied.
not more than 0.02 percent are used, fine hair
6.6-2-g A cavity wall will provide a perfect cracks appear in the joints. These may usually be
barrier to rain penetration. Even when the outer ignored. With bricks of higher shrinkage values,
part of the wall gets wet, the inner one will major cracks may appear through the brickwork.
remain absolutely dry. Tn confine cracks to the joints and to dissipate
these into a large number of fine joints, it is desi-
6.6.2.4 Table 3 indicates the suitability of various rable that the mortar used shall be weaker than
walls under different conditions of exposure. the bricks.
6.6.4.2 Cracking due to shrinkage normally will
Table 3 Suitability of Walls for occur at openings or other points where the verti-
Variow Expomarem cal or horizontal section of a wall changes. A long
( ClaurG6.6.2.4 ) wall with a few openings will tend to show wider
cracks above and below the openings than a simi-
lar wall with many openings. Metal reinforcement
may be embedded in brickwork at points where
Ii - Recommended cracking is likely to occur.
N - Not Recommended
6.6.5 Themal Insulation
81 Constrmction Exposure
No. --d---~ 6.6.5.1 For requirements of thermal insulation in
Sheltered Moderate Severe walls, reference may be made to IS 3792 : 1978.
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) The thermal transmittance ( U-value ) of l-brick
1. Unrendred &brick N N N (200 mm ) thick wall with 15 mm plaster on
thick wall both sides will be about 19 5 K cal/mshdeg C ( or
0.4 Btu/ft*hdeg F ).
2. Unrendred l-brick R N N
thick solid wall 6.6.6 Fire Resistance
3. Unreodered If-brick R R N For requirements regarding resistance to fire,
thick solid wall
reference may be made to IS 1642 : 1988.
4. Rendered solid wall R R N
6.6.7 kuzd Innrlation
5. Cavity wall or rende- R R R
red one-brick thick Requ&ments for insuh%iOn against airborne
solid wall sound are laid down in IS 1.950 : 1962 and
reference may be made to that standard in this
NOTE - Exposure condition8 to wind and rain may be connection.
broadly divided into rheltered, moderate and Ievere
locationr.
6.6.8 Dnrabilitp
Shclfnud Conditions are, for example, regions of low rain-
fall ( below 750 mm per annum ) and where brickwork Deterioration of brickwork arises due to following
is protected by the proximity of buildings of rimilar causes:
or greater heights. Brickwork in the lower two rtoreyr
of building8 of ruch location8 will fall in this group. 4 Disintegration due to soluble salts present
in the brickwork or when the brickwork is
Ma&r&r Cmditions are obtained where the exposure is in contact with subsoil water containing
neither sheltered nor severe. soluble salts ( see Note 1 );
S-n Cm&ions are obtained where the bric_l_work is Disintegration due to impurides present in
exposed to a moderate gale accompanied by ap@@tent
W
the bricks which! under certatn conditions
rain. Brickwork that projects well above *a 8UrroUnding
buildings will, especially, be r~f~ely exposed.
are liable to Qsrupt the brickwork ( JC~
Note 2 );

12
 IS 2212 t 1991

c) Disintegration due to frost action ( see 6.8.1.3 The damp-proof course shall occupy the
Note 3 ); and full wit&of the wall just below it, and shall be
provided even under door openings.
d) Corrosion of iron or steel in reinforced
brickwork. 6.8.2 Damp-proof course may be horizontal or
NOTES vertical and will be required at one or all of the
locations as below:
1 When a wall is subiectcd to continued wetting or
alternate drying and wetting, the soluble salts therein, a) Below the lowest floor level to prevent entry
mostly sulphates of alkalia prerent in the bricks get
dissolved and interact with- certaio components of
of water from the soil;
cement or hydraulic lime in the mortar and rendering, b) Above ground level to prevent water from
resulting in the formation of new compounds with
increased volume and consequent cracks in the bricks rising up the wall; and
or in the mortar. Under similar circumstances disinteg-
ration also occurs due to the crystallization of certain c) At openings, parapets, etc, to prevent
salts like magnesium sulphate just inside thesurface access of rain-water into the structure.
pores of the bricks giving rise to severe surface decay.
6.8.3 Where the lowest floor of a structure is
2 Nodules of quick lime in the bricks when they get below the finished ground level, a -horizontal
hydrated due to soaking in water during construction or
subsequent dampness expand in volume setting up dis-
damp-proof course through the body of the wall,
ruptive effect on the bricks. below the level of the underside of the floor will
be required. This will have to be connected in
3 When the brickwork is saturated with water and ex- the external walls through a vertical damp-proof
posed to freezing conditions, the expansion of water
rryc;;ing the freezing has a disruptive effect on the course to the horizontal damp-proof course above
ground level. This, in effect, seals the basement
from ingress of water.
6.7 Footinga
6.8.4 All walls in a building shall be provided
For construction of foundation footings in brick- with a damp-proof course which is at least 15 cm
work reference may be made to IS 1080 : 1985. above the finished ground or plinth protection
level and preferably immediately below the under-
e6.8 DsmpProof Courses side of the ground floor. The damp-proof course
56.8.1 The function of a damp-proof course is to shall run without a break throughout the length
prevent the passage of water from an external of the wall, even under door or other openings.
source into a structure or from one part of a
structure to another. Damp-proof courses may 6.8.5 Damp-proof courses shall be provided on
consist of flexible material like tar or bitumen the jambs and at the top of openings where such
felts, or of a layer of dense concrete or slates or openings occur in cavity falls. The damp-proof
cuddappah stone slabs. course in the jambs shall be vertical and shall be
provided at the junction of the internal and exter-
6.8.1.1 Dampproofing with a layer of concrete nal parts of the cavity wall so as to prevent ingress
shall conform to the following requirements: of dampness from the external part of the wall to
the internal leaf ( SGCFig. 11 ). A flexible damp-
4 Size of stone aggregate 10 mm nominal
proof course ( se6 Fig. 12 ) shall be provided at
to be used size ( see IS 383 :
the top to protect the lintel head from the water
1970 )
which flows down through the cavity above and
b) Mix of concrete 1:2:4 to drain it off outside through weep holes.

4 Thickness of concrete Not less than 4 cm 6.8.6 In parapets, where the coping is of an im-
layer pervious material like stone or dense concrete, no
damp roof course may be necessary across the
4 The concrete layer
Wall. tv here the coping is of a previous nature, it
shall be provided with
may be necessary to interpose a flexible damp
a waterproofing treat-
proof course about 15 to 20 cm above the finished
ment which may be
roof level and carry it down the inside face of the
either a surface treat-
wall to the lower face of the drip course. Damp-
ment or with integral
proofing of parapets in the case of cavity walls
waterproofing com-
construction is illustrated in Fig. 13.
pounds
6.8.7 Damp-proofing details under architectural
NOTE - For surface treatment of concrete damp
proof course, it is found by experience that painting,
features is illustrated in Fig. 14.
with hot bitumen at the rate of 17 kg/l00 m* is rtis- 6.9 Cavity Wall
factory.
6.9.1 The outer and inner leaves of a cavity wall
8.8.1.2 Slates and cudda#ah stone slabs used for may be of the same material or of different mate-
damp-proofing shall be not less than 40 mm thick, rials, such as brickwork and concrete, etc. The

13
 ..
IS 2212I ls!u

FLEXl6LE DAMP-PROOF
COURSE OVER SUPPORT~SEE flc.rt~)

10 cm + SUPPORT OF APPROPRIATE
Mlrd LENGTH
INSIDE I I

FLEXIBLE VERTICAL
DAMP-PROOF COURSE FRAME TO OPENING
OUTSIDE PLAN
1lA Details with Frame foi Opening on Outside
FLEXl8LE DAMP-PROOF
COURSE OVER SUPPORT (SEE FIG.128)

SUPPORT OF APPROPRIATE
LENGTH
INSIDE

SLATE DAMP -
PROOF COURSE FRAME TO OPENING
OUTSIDE PLAN
11B Details with Fiame for Op8ning on Inside
FIG. 11DETAILS OF DAMP-PROOF
COURSSSAT JAMBFOROPENIIWSIN CAVITYWALL
thicker leaf shall be arranged on the inside and Ties shall be given a bituminous or other coat
the cavity or apace between the two leaves of the before, insertion to protect them from corrosion.
wall #hall be between 4 cm to 8 cm.
6.10 Be- of Ploor~ and Roofs

6.9.2 The function of the wall ties is to bind to-
gether the outer and inner leaves of a cavity wall.
This shall be spaced not more than four brick-
lengths apart horizontally and not more than 5
brick-heights vertically, and staggered. Additional
ties shall be used near openings. There shall, at
least, be 5 ties per square metre surface area of
the wall.
6.9.3 Ties may be of mild steel, flat iron or round
bars, suitably twisted at their mid-point or sloped
towards the exterior side ao as to prevent water
from flowing along it from outer to inner leaf.
6.10.1 Timber Floor and Roofs
It is not desirable to embed any structural timber
in brickwork as it is liable to be affected by dry
rot. Timber wall pIates shall be protected with
preservative if they have to be embedded in wall.
The ends of timbers joists shall preferably rest on
corbels or brackets but when built into a wall they
shall be treated with preservative, and in addition,
space shall be left around them for free circulation
of air. The ends of beams carrying heavy loads,
and of trusses shall be supported on templates of
concrete or stone to distribute the load over a
greater area of brick wall.

14
 FLEXIBLE DAMP -
PROOF COURSE

SECTION
12A Head of Opening with Frame on Outside

INSIDE

FLEXIBLE DAMP-
PROOF COURSE

SUPPORT
OPENI

SECTION
126 Head of Opening with Frame on Inside
FIG. 12 DBTAILSOF DAMP-PROOFINGAT LINTEL HEAD LRVRL
FOR OPR#INGSIN CAVITY WULS

DAMP PROOF
COURSE FOP *IGH

18A Details where ParapetIs also of Cavity 133 Detail8 wheie Parapet is of Solld
Constructlon Construction
FIG. 13 DRTMLS OF DAMPPROO~G IN PARAPBTOWR CAWY CONSTRUCTION

15
 6.10.3.2 Where the bottom of the slab does not
coincide with the level of a brick course, the level
shaIl not be made up with cut bricks but the
thickness of the slab at bearing shall be increased
so that the bearing is directly on the brick course
immediately below its level.
6.10.3.3 Ends of RCC beams shall generally be
placed on template of plain or reinforced cement
concrete or stone.

.Fl EXIBLE DAMP - 6.10.3.4 The ends of RCC slabs may bear on a
PROOF COURSE .layer of cement mortar ( 1 : 4 mix ) 12 to 20 mm
thick. Its top surface shall be white-washed or
otherwise suitably treated so as to minimize the
friction to movement of the concrete slab over
the bearing.
6.11 Brickwork Round Openings
6.1Ll Openings shall be of such a size and so
14A Plinth - Solid Wall spaced in walls as to reduce cutting of bricks to
the minimum. The width of openings shall, as far
as possible, be a multiple of the width of a brick.
6.11.2 In external walls, it is desirable to rebate
the sills, jambs and heads of openings so as to form
a barrier for rain-water. The still shall be sloped
slightly so as to allow rain-water to drain off.

6.12 Parapets and Copings

6.12.1 The thickness of parapets shall be such that

their base covers the junction of roof slab and wall
which shall be further effectively treated against
possible leakage of rain-water as per IS 2115 :
1980.
6.12.2 Copings may be of atone, concrete, brick
or terracotta and throated on the underside of the
projection. The top of the coping shall be slightly
sloped so as to allow rain-water to drain off
( seu 6.8.6 and Fig. 13 ).
6.13 Arckitectural Features
148 String Course - Solid or Cavity Wall
6.13.1 All projecting architectural features, such
FIG. 14 DETAILS OF DAMP-PROOFING IN as plinth projections, string courses or cornices,
ARCHITECTURAL PROJEC~ON shall be effectively bonded by tailing into the
brickwork to ensure stability. Such architectural
6.10.2 Steel Beams features shall be set straight and true with the
finished joints as far as possible.
The ends of steel beams embedded in masonry
shall be built-in with space all round for repaint- 6.13.2 When such features are not to be plastered
ing or shall be protected with a thick bituminous over, they shall be built with brick which have
coat or shall be encased in rich concrete of mix high durability, resistance to abrasion and mois-
1 : 2 : 4. The ends shall generally be supported ture penetration. Bricks specially made to required
on templates of plain or reinforced cement con- shape for this purpose shall be used, if possible
crete of mix 1 : 2 : 4, or stone. otherwise, selected bricks rubbed and ground to
correct shape and size may be used.
6.10.3 RCC Floors and Roofs
6.13.3 Sun shades and such projecting features
6.10.3.1 Reinforced cement concrete floor and which depend on the men of brick masonry over
roof slabs resting on the wall shall have a width them for their stability shall be kept supported
of bearing not less than the effective depth of slab till such time the brick masonry above is built and.
subject to a minimum of 10 cm. hardened sufliciently.

7 STORAGE AND HANDLING OF
MATERIALS
7.1 Bricks
.Bricks shall not be dumped at side. They shall be
stacked in regular tiers even as they are unloaded,
to minimiae breakages and defacement of bricks.
The supply of bricks shall be so arranged that, as
far as possible, at least two days requirements of
bricks are available at site at any time.
Bricks selected for different situations of use in
the work shall be stacked separately.
7.2 Cement
Cement shall be stored above ground level in per-
fectly dry and watertight sheds. Genient shall be
stacked not more than eight bags high. The bags
shall be stacked in a manner to facilitate removal
and use in the order in which they are received.
1.3 Lime
-Quick lime shall, as far as possible, be slaked soon
alter it is received. Storage of unslaked fat or
semi-hydraulic lime is not desirable as the lime
deteriorates by absorption of moisture from the
atmosphere and also is likely to cause fires.
Slaked hydraulic lime shall be stored in the same
way as cement as it sets quickly under damp
conditions.
7.4 Mortars
7.4.1 The problem of storage of mortar does not
arise in the case of cement and cement-lime mor-
tar or lime mortars with hydrulic limes, as these
have to be used immediately. Lime mortars using
semi-hydraulic limes which sometimes require to
be used after a day or two after their grinding,
shall be prevented from drying out by protective
covering and by occasional sprinkling of water.
7.4.2 Mortars shall be well mixed and shall be
transported from the mixing platform to the site
of work in such a manner as to prevent formation
of laitance or segregation.
8 SETTING OUT
-8.1 Generally the site shall be deared of grass
roots, tree stumps, etc, before the building lines are the dead, live and impact loads which are likely
set out. In case of sloping terrain care shall be
taken to ensure that the dimensions on Ian are as to ensure the
set out correctly in one or more horizont ap planes.
.8.2 The building lines shall be set out with steel
tapes. Setting out of angles shall be with theodo-
,lite in case of important and intricate structures
where the lengthr of arms exceed 16 m. In other
cases they may be. set out by meazurement
sides In rectangular or square setting out, diago-
nals shall be checked to enzure accuracy.
IS 2212 I 1991
8.3 The setting out of walls shall be facilitated by
permanent rows of pillars, parallel to and at a
fixed distance beyond the periphery of the build-
ing. The pillar shall be located at the junctions of
cross walls with the periphery of the building.
The pillars shall be located at the junctions of
cross walls with the peripheral lines of pillars.
The centrelines of the cross walls shall be extended
to and permanently erected on the plastered tops
of the corresponding sets of pillars. The datumlines
parallel to and at the known fixed distance from
the centre lines of the external walls, shall also
be permanently marked on the corresponding
rows of pillars to serve as checks on the accuracy
of the work as it proceeds. The tops of these pillars
shall be at the same level and preferably at the
plinth or floor level. The pillars shall be of size
not less than 30 cm square and shall be bedded
sufficiently deep into ground so that they are not
easily disturbed.
8.4 Site Bench Marks
Before commencing building operation, permanent
bench marks located at convenient points on the
site and preferable linked with G. T. S. Bench
Marks, shall be put up so as to facilitate accurate
setting out of height from a tlxed da&m.
8.5 The judicious use of storey rods may ensure
accuracy m setting out and facility for checking
the work as it proceeds.
9 SCAFFOLDING \
9.1 Single scaffolding shall not be used on im-
portant works, since subsequent filling up of the
putlog holes and rendering of their surface would
give an unsightly appearance, Another disadvant-
age with single scaffolding is that workmen arc
apt to support them on window and similar
spoiling the frames and
openings, thereby
shutters.
9.1.1 Where single scaffolding is adopted, the
lacing of the poles, which are to rest on the
g ricks ork under construction, shall be so adjusted
as to affect only one of the headers at the point of
support in the various courses.
9.2 Scaffolding shall be designed to withstand all
to come on them. They shall also be so designed
fety of the workmen using them
and shall confor in all respects to the require-
ments of the r levant building regulations on
safety, health an f we&e and also the local build-
ing bye-laws.
10 SOAKING OF BRICKS
of
10.1 Bricks shall be soaked in water before use for
a period that is sufficient for the water to just
17
1s 2212t 1991

penetrate the whole depth of the bricks ( see 11.1.3 The courses shall be aligned and care shall.
Notes ). Wetting the bricks assists in removing the be taken to keep the perpends.
the dirt, sand and dust from them. Further, it
11.1.4 The brickwork shall be built in uniform
prevents the suction of water from the wet mortar,
layers; corners and other advanced work shall be
as otherwise the mortar is likely to dry out soon
racked back. No part of a wall during its construc-
and crumble before attaining any strength. The
tion shall rise more than one metre above the
bricks shall not be too wet at the time of use, as
general construction level, to avoid unequal settle-
they are likely to slip on the mortar bed and there
will be difficulty in ensuring plumbness of the ment and alao improper jointing.
wall. Moreover, proper adhesion of bricks to 11.1.5 The face joints shall be finished either by
mortar will not be possible if the bricks are too joi;;i;,or by pointing as specified, in accordance-
.
wet. . .
NOTES
1 The period of soaking may be easily found at site by
a field test in which the brick MOsoaked in watrr for
different periods and tben broken to find the exteat of
water penetration. The least period that corresponds to
complete soaking will be the one to be allowed for in
the construction work.

2 If the brick8 are soaked for the required time in water

that is frequently changed, the soluble mltr in the brick
will be leached out, and subsequent effloreacence will
be reduced. 70

10.2 When bricks are soaked they shall be remo-

ved from the tank sufficiently early so that at the
time of laying they are skin-dry. Such soaked
bricks shall be stacked on a clean place, where
they are not again spoiled by dirt, earth, etc.
11 LAYING OF BRICKWORK
11.1 General
11.1.1 Brick shall be laid on a full bed of mortar.
When laying, the bricks shall be slightly pressed
so that the mortar gets into all the pores of the
brick surface to ensure proper adhesion. Cross
joints and wall joints shall be properly flushed and
packed with mortar so that no hollow spaces are
left. Properly filled joints ensure maximum
strength and resistance to penetration of moisture
which takes place mainly through joints.
In the case of thick walls ( two-brick thick and
over ), the joints shall be grouted at every course
in addition to bedding and flushing with mortar.
The course at the top of the plinth and sills at the
top of the wall just below the roof slab or floor
slab and at the top of the parapet, shall be laid
with bricks on edge ( applicable only in the
case of traditional bricks ); and at corners and
deadends the bricks shall be properly radiated and
keyed into position by using cut-bricks ( also
known as punjo bricks or marucona~ ). Typical
shape and arrangement of these bricks are shown
in Fig. 15.
11.1.2 Bricks with 20 mm deep frog shall be used
frog-down. Bricks with 10 mm deep frog shall be
used either frog-up or frog-down.
70
-
60
-f-
FIG. 15 A TYPICAL ARRANGEMENT OF CUT-
BRKXCS IN A CORNER
11.1.6 Toothing may be done where future
extention is contemplated but shall not be used as
an alternative to racking back.
11.2 Wails
11.2.1 All quoins shall be accurately constructed
and the height of the courses checked with storey
rods as the work proceeds. In general, quoin-
bricks shall be headers and stretchers in alternate
courses, the bond being established by placing a
quoin closer next to the queen header.
11.2.2 Acute and obtuse quoins shall be bonded,
where practicable, in the same way as square
quoins. Obtuse quoins shall be formed with
squints showing a three-quarter brick on one face
and a quarter brick on the other.
11.3 Plasters
These shall be set out as to avoid broken bond.
1 I .4 Openings
11.4.1 The depth of reveals and rebates shall,
where practicable, conform to standard brick sizes
in order to avoid cutting of bricks and thereby
weakening the work.
11.4.2 The arrangement of bond at quoins at
jambs of openings shall be symmetrical.

18

11.5 Partitionr
For half-brick partitions to be keyed into main
walls, indents shall be 1eR in the latter.
Il.6 Arches
Arches shall be turned with ordinary bricks over
timber centres, generally in rings of half-brick
length. For face work, the bri&s shall.be either
specially manufactured bricks or ordinary bricks
cut and rubbed to shape in order to obtaih uniform
radial joints.
11.6-l Flat arches may be used for the sake of
appearance, but for purposq. of carrying loads
of the wall above they shall be used in co&~-
tion with relieving arches, or with lintels placed
b&&d.
11.6.2 In the construction ofa flat arch, though
the extrados is perfectly level; the intrados is given
a slight camber to allow for any slight settlement
.or to correct the apparent sagging of a horizontal
line, the usual allowance being about 1 mm rise
.at the ccntre for every 100 mm of span.
11.6.3 Large arches in masonry shall be construc-
ted in accordance with IS 2118 : 1980.
11.7 Fixing of Framea
11.7.1 Where door or window frames of timber
-are f&cd in the openings, the 6xing shall be done
,gencrally with hold-fasts of adequate size and
strength securely embedded in the l+kwork or
in chases later filled up by cement .mortar or con-
crete. Hold-fasts shall be fixed in the brickwork
for a sufficient length and then burned up at end
into a cross joint, thus avoiding indiscriminate
cutting of bricks Iron hold-fasts shall be given a
.protective coat of bitumen to avoid rusting. Wood-
work faces in contact with brickwork shall be
treated with wood preservative to prevent attack
from insects and termites.
11.7.2 Fixing of steel doors and windows shall be
done in accordance with IS 108l : -1960.
11.7.3 Fixmg of timber doo& a& tiindows shall
be done in aixordance ~itbIS.9913~ 1968.
Y1.7.4 Thb frames shall prefaa& b& fixed simul-
taneously as the masonry work proceeda* as,this
construction will tnsure ,proper bond without gaps
between the masonry and thl frames.
1 I .8 Reinforced Brickwork
11.8.1 Reinforcement in hrilf-brick partition walls
may be in the form of mild steel flats or hoop iron,
expanded mesh, or mild steel bars or fabric. These
are generally used in every third or fourth courses
+f the brickwork They shall be securely anchored
at their ends where the partitions bond.
IS 2212 t 1991
11.8.2 In thi cast of round bars used as reinforce-
ment, the diameter shall not exceed 8 mm. Flat
bars and similar reinforcement shall not have a
thickness exceeding 8 mm.
11.8.3 The thickness of reinforced brick wall shall
be not less than 100 mm.
11.8.4 The crushing strength of the bricks used.in
reinforced brick masonry shall be not less than
7.5 N/mm*.
1 I .8.5 The mortar used for reinforced brickwork
shall generally be rich, dense, cement mortar of
mix about 1 : 4. Lime mortars shall not be used.
11.8.6 The inlaid steel reinforcement shall be
corn letely embedded in mortar. Overlaps in the
rein Forcement, if any, shall not be less than
300 mm.
11.8.6.1 The mortar covering in the direction of
joints shall be not less than 15 mm.
11.8.6.2 The mortar interposed between the rein-
forcement bars and the brick shall be not less than
5 mm thick.
11.8.7 In the case where the reinforcements cross
inside a joint, the diameter of the reinforcement
shall not exceed 5 mm, unless specially shaped
bricks are used to permit larger reinforcement.
11.9 Protection Against Damage
11.9.1 Care shall be taken during construction
that edges of jambs, sills, heads, etc, are not
damaged.
11.9.2 In inclemerlr weather, newly built work
shall be covered with gunny bags or tarpaulin
so as to prevent the mortar from being washed
away.
11.10 curing
In hot and dry weather, the mortar is likely to
dry up before it has attained its final set and may
crumble. This shall be prevented by keeping the
brickwork constantly wet for at least seven days,
Cxcept in the case of brickwork with mud mortar
for which no such curing is required.
11.11 Provision for Service Instillations
To facilitate taking service lines iater without
inordinate .cutting ,?f completed work, sleeves and
chases +a11 be provided during the cpnstruction
itself. Scich sleeves shall slope down outwards in
external walls so that their surface cannot form
channels for t$eeasy passage of water inside.
11.12 Cavity Walls
11.12.1 As the main object of providing a conti-
nuous cavity in an external wall is to prevent r&n
penetrating to the. inner face, care shall be
W
IS 2212-t
1991
exercised during construction that the cavity is
continuous and free from obstruction. As far as
possible, mortar droppings shall be prevented from
falling down the cavity by the use of laths or by
haybands which shall be drawn up the cavity as
the work proceeds. Any mortar which may
unavoidably fall on the wall-ties be removed daily
and temporary openinga 8hall be provided to
permit the daily removal of mortar droppings from
the bottom of the cavity.
11.12.2 Special precautionr a8 laid down in
IS 1649 : 1962 shall be taken in building flues
adjacent to cavities.
11.1!2.3Bond
In building hollow walls of half-brick thickness,
only stretcher bond shall be used, unless purpose-
made snap headera tie available. When header
bricks are cut and u8ed, they are either likely to
protrude into the cavity and form ledges for mor-
tar droppings to collect or they may be so short as
to weaken the 8tructure.
11.12.4 The outer and inner leaves shall be tied
by means of wall ties. The wall ties shall prefera-
bly be bedded with a riight fall towards the
exterior part of the wall.
11.12.5 At the base of the cavity wall, the founda-
tions and basement shall be solidly constructed up
to 300 mm above the ground level. The air cavity
shall begin not less than 200 mm below the upper
floor surface of the ground floor and the cavity
shall be continued without interruption up to the
roof.
11.12.6 Vbntilorion
In order to keep the. cavity dry, air slot8 8hall be
provided above the ground floor level and below
the cave level of the roof to extent of 500 mm8
area of vents to every 20 m8 area of the wall.
11.12.7 The following precaution8 rhall be obser-
ved at the top of the cavity:
If the top of a hollow wall ends
4 Parapts -
with a parapet, the cavity 8hall be carried
up to the full height of the wall or 8topped
at the roof-fleshing level.
b) Eaves - If a roof project8 over the top
of the wall, the cavity shall be closed at
the top.
cl Party Walls - In a hollow party wall, the
top of a cavity shall be closed just above
the uppermost ceiling level and the courses
over shall be continued in solid brickwork.
A sound-insulating material shall be inter-
posed between the hollow wall and the
solid brickwork.
11.12.8 At the points where the two leaves of the
hollow wall come into contact ( for example, at
windows and doors ), they shall be separated by
a water-tight membrane.
11.12.8.1 Above the lintels of door8 and windows,
damp-proof membrane shall be inserted slopping
downwards and outwards.
11.12.8.2 At solid jambs a vertical damp-proof
coune shall be inserted between the outer and
inner parts of the wall.
12 INSPECTION
12.1 General
The object of inspection of brick masonry work is
to ensure it8 satisfactory performance and al80 to-
ascertain whether all the recommended practice
of workmanship is adopted at every stage. As the-
correct strength of masonry cannot be ascertain-
ed without destruction, a close supervision during-
the course of construction is necessary to ensure.
satisfactory performance. The strength of brick-
work depends on the strength of individual brick,
rtrength of mortar, bond and workmanship.
12.2 Inspection ofMaterials
In caoc of large works, samples of bricks, sands,
~urkAi, lime, cement, etc, which go to form the
brickwork, shall be periodically tested in a labora-
tory to make 8ure that they conform to the
rc uirements stated in 5. Simple field tests may
8u5ticc in the ca8e of small/work8.
12.3 IamPection of Workm8aship
A close rupervision while the work is in progress
will ensure a better quality work with the materials
available for use. The following shall be observed
at the time of inspection:
a) All loore materi& dirt and ret lump8 of
mortar which may be lying over the surface
over which brickwork i8 to be freshly star-
ted, shall be removed with a wire brush.
b) All the brick8 shall be thoroughly soaked in
clean water immediately before use.
c) The s&ace over which the brickwork is to-
be started shall be slightly wetted.
d) Thi fint coume itself shall be made hori-
zontal by providing enough mortar in the
bed joint to till up any undulations in the
bed course.
e) Plastic mortar results in thorough bedding
of the brick and more complete filling of
the joints which enrure greater strength.
Care 8hall be taken to see that the required
quantity of water is added to the mortar
at the mixing platform itself and not over
the course8.

f) All the joints shall, as far as possible, be
thin and the speci6cations mentioned
in 6.4 in this regard shall be strictly adha
red to.
8) Care shall be taken to see that there is no
through joints and the lap is not less than
half the width of the brick, and that all
the vertical joints are properly filled with
mortar.
h) The verticality of the walls and horixon-
tality of the courses shall be checked very
often with plumb bob and spirit level
respectively.
3 No portion of the work shall be left more
than 1 m lower than the other. Where the
masonry of one part has to be delayed the
work shall be raked back suitably at an
angle not exceeding 45 according to bond
and not toothed.
k) Where plastering is required to be done all
the vertical as well as horizontal joints shall
be raked to a depth of about 10 mm while
the mortar is wet, and this will ensure
satisfactory adhesion between the plaster
aud brickwork, and
Care shall be taken to ensure that the brick
d copings, sills, chimney caps.
work is kept wet for seven days commenc-
ing from 24 hours after the course is laid.
13 MAlNTENANCE
13.1 Where proper materials and workmanship
are used, brickwork will need little maintenance.
If, however, defects occur, they may be due to the
following causes:
a) Sulphate attack on mortars and renderings,
b) Use of unsound materials,
c) Corrosion of embedded iron or steel,
d) Crystallization of salts from the bricks, and
e) Defects due to shrinkage on drying.
13.2 $IlJphotc Attack on Mortar and Render-
be
13.2.1 Sulphates present in br&kwork react in the
presence of water with alumma contents of the
cement and hydraulic limes in the mortar and
rendering, forming other salts with considerable
increase in volume, and consquently chip and
spall the bricks, produce cracks in the joints and
renderings, and disintegrate the mortar. Water is,
therefore, essential for thii defect, and it may
arise in exposed situations in brickwork. Parapets,
boundary walls, chimney walls, etc, shall be built
with bricks of low sulphate content.. Similarly,
brickwork in situations where wet conditions are to
be expected, such as below damp-proof course, in
man holes, in retaining walls# etc, shall .also be
21
IS 2212 8 1991
built of bricks with low sulphate content. Brick-
work exposed to sea spray shall be made with
dense bricks and cement mortar. Brickwork in
exposed situations shall not be given a rich cement
rendering ( say richer than 1 : 4 cement : sand
mix ) as the latter, due to shrinkage cracks, may
admit penetration of water into the body of the
wall, and at the same time, prevent its ready
evaporation due to its close texture.
13.2.2 Sulphate attacks in their initial stages may
be remedied by rectifying the possible sources of
water seepage into the body of brickwork and by
scraping the affected mortar and rcjointing and
rendering. In more advanced stages, the only
remedy is to pull down the affected parts and
reconstruct them.
13.2.3 The primary precaution to be taken to
prevent sulphate attacks is to adopt constructional
details and choose materials that will ensure
complete preventation of entry of water into the
brickwork.
Some important constructional details to avoid
wet conditions are stated below:
Dampproof courses shall be provided under
4
all jointed members covering the horizontal
or sloping faces of brickwork including
W All projecting features formed with joined
units, such a cornices and string courses,
ahall be covered with properly designed
flashings, and where necessary, cover flash-
ings shall be provided at the wall face.
Cement fillets and cement renderings used
as a protection to horizontal surfaces are
unlikely to be satisfactory; both are liable
to develop shrinkage cracks which let in
water.
4 Parapet. walls shall not be sealed on both
faces by impervious rendering; this reduces
the rate of evaporation and may ultimately
result in a wet-condition of the brickwork.
4 On walls faced with external renderings,
all damp-proof courses shall extend through
the facing and turn down to form protec-
tective drips.
e) Where flashings are used above roof level
in coojunction with damp-proof courses,
they shall be inserted immediately below
the dampproof courses.
f 1 Cavity walls shall be effectively drained by
weep holes above all damp-proof courses
that bridge the cavity.
I31The use of dense stones or bricks as a facing
to porous brickwork in solid walls may lead
to prolonged dampness of the wall. Water
entering through the ahriakage cracks may
IS 2212I .l!J91
not evaporate su5ciently rapidly through
the dense facing.
13.3 Use of Unsound Materials
13.3.1 Bricks containing burnt nodules8 of quick-
lime, and mortar containing unslaked particles of
lime are often responsible for cracks in bricks, and
for pittings displacement cracks, etc, in mortars;
when coming in contact with water, the quick-
lime gets hydrated and expands in volume and
causes such defects.
13.3.2 The remedy lies in ensuring that all lime
is properly slaked before mixing into mortar, and
in choosing bricks burnt from the proper soil.
Constructional details designed for excluc&ng
moisture from such walls ( SM 13.2 ) will also stop
this trouble.
13.4 Corrosion of Embedded Iron and Steel
Iron and steel corrode in contact with atmospheric
moisture, where such moisture is laden with acids
sulphates and chloride salts in solution. In coastal
areas such corrosion occurs rapidly. Iron embed-
ded in brickwork is corroded for the same reason
.when such sale are released, in solution from the
bricks .themselv& when-damp. While undergoing
cowsion, the iron expands considerably and
tends to disrupt the brickwork. Prevention of such
corrosion may be achieved by giving an encase-
ment of 15 to 25 mm of dtnse cement mortar ( 1:4
mix or richer) around all embedded steel sections.
Iron and steel memb& partially embedded in
brickwork tend to corrode at the point of their
entry into the brickwork,aod to prevent this, they
shall be given a bituminous protective coating at
that place.
13.5 Crystallisation of Salts
13.5.1 When bricks containing soluble salts are
used in construction, these salts are dissolved out,
if water passes into the brickwork and are deposi-
ted in the form of fine crystals on the face of the
brickwork. This is known as efflorescence.
13.5.2 Effloreseence will be a common phenome-
non with new construction since the water used in
the construction invariably leaves the salts dissol-
ved from the brickwork on the face. When the
structure dries up, this efflorescence shall be scrub-
bed out dry with brushes. They shall not be
washed as the solution will again be absorbed
into the brickwork. Cleaning with acids shall not
be done as new salts are formed thereby.
NOTE - In some cases, when the e5orescence is
composed mainly of lime and the lime has had time to
carbonate into almost insoluble chalk, the surface may
be wetted to orevent undue &sorotion ad then scrub-
bed down wiih a solution of oni put of co&merckl
hydrochloric ( muriatic ) acid in 20 parts of water and
subsequently washed dowxitoremove- all traces of acid,
care having been t&en previously to protect any metal
or other work likely to be damaged by the acid.
13.5.3 Continued effloreescence would indicate
that water from leaks or .similar sources is finding
its way into the brickwork through previous
channels. In these cases, entry of water shall be
located and stopped,
13.5.4 Some of the salts, like magnesium sulphate
have a disintegration effect on the brick face, and
cause it to crumble to dust. Chemical analysis of
the surface scrapings will indicate the nature of
the salts and if they are of the harmful type
special care shall be taken to seal off the entry of.
water into the brickwork.
13.6 Defects Due to Shrinkage or Drying
Brickwork generally swells, with absorption of-
water and whar~the water evaporates, it shrinks
and in so doing develops vertical cracks, and
when the mortar of the brickwork is lean, the
cracks are distributed over a large nymber of
joints so that they are not significantly visible.
However, when the mortar is rich, the resulting
cracks are few but wider, occurring at the weakest
point in the brick or mortar. These cracks have
no adverse effect on the structural strength of the
work and.may be easily rectified. These do not
recur after the first season of drying out provided
the walls are generally water-tight.
14 REPAIRING BRICKWORK
14.1 Defects and cracking in brickwork may -be
due to one or several causes mentioned in
clause 13.1 and to execute effective repairs, it is
necessary to know the cause of damage. The effect
of defect in a wall must be judged in relation to
the building as a whole and the general soundness
of its construction and the particular function of
the wall is called upon to serve. The nature of
repairs mainly depends on whether it is structural
damage or surface cracking only. At times even-
wide ctacks may not seriously affect the stability
of the structure provided the brickwork is not
distorted or is not much out of plumb.
14.2 Before deciding the course of treatment t@
be adopted to following factors shall be conside-
red:
a) The type of foundation on which the wall:
is constructed;
b) The position and bonding of cross walls-
and other connecting structural members;
c) Whether the wall is true to plumb;
d) Whether floors, roofs, upper walls, etc, are
liable to exert thrust or restraint to further
movement; and
e) The aesthetic effect of the crack over the
building as a whole.
 IS 2212 r.1991

14.3 Treatment of Structural Damage patched surface will match with the sur-
rounding surface. In repairing cracks with
14.3.1 Where walls become unsafe due to diffb mortar it is important to secure satisfactory
rential movements resulting from seasonal fluctua- adhesion between the masonry of the exis-
tions in the moisture content of subsoil or due to
ting work and the new bricks and also not
the presence of filled materials below the
to use toq strong a mortar mix Otherv.ise
foundations, the work may require special measure
shrinkage of the new rich mortar may
such as providing reinforced concrete band at
cause a fresh crack to develop. To promote
plinth level, lintel level, top level, etc, and
adhesion, the brickwork shall be wetted
lowering ground-water table.
before the mortar is filled in.
14.3.2 For damages other than mentioned 14.3.3.2 If a number of cracks have appeared in
in 14.3.1 one of the following treatments may be
a single wall and the cracks cross each other these
adopted: cracks can not be effectively repaired. The walls
To provide tie rods passing through the in such cases have no strength and it is advisable to
floor or at roof level anchoring the damag- dismantle the entire wall and reconstruct the same,
ed wall to another wall or structural supporting the structure above in a suitable
member that is sound or has tendency to marmer.
niove in the opposite direction.
In case the diagonal cracks have occurred in a
To build buttresses, keyed into the damag- localised place of the wall, the brickwork at the
ed wall so as to give thrust against the damaged place and around shall be dismantled
wall in the required direction. It shall be and rebuilt. While dismantling such portions, care
ensured that the buttresses rest on firm soil shall be taken to relieve the load on the wall by
without giving way to settlements or move- providing props at suitable places. The props or
ments. supports for the structure above the work under
repair shall not be removed till the rebuilt maso-
In case the wall is noticed to be out of nry has attained enough strength.
plumb, the damaged or bulged portion of
the wall shall be dismantled and rebuilt 14.3.3.3 Where the cracks are likely to continue
with mortar of the same proportion aa the to widen for sometime after initial development
adjoining portion. ( such as in the case of cracks due to ground
14.3.3 Tmtmmt of Crab ACTOSS
Walls movement in shrinkable clay sub-soil ) it would
be advisable not to repair the cracks with mortar.
14.3.3.1 These cracks are more or less diagonal If filling is found necessary to prevent the pene-
cracks and either follow the vertical and horizon- tration of moisture or rain, an oil based mastic
tal joints alternately or pass straight down through shall be applied by caulking or by a gun.
alternate vertical joints and thi intervening bricks
and mortar beds. In these cases one of the follow- 14.3.3.4 Surface cracks
ing methods may be adopted:
Where the mortar in the joints has become dama-
4 If the cracks are of such nature that they
ged without dislocatiag the brickwork, which may
are likely to encourage the penetration of
rain if they are not repaired, it is necessary be due to initial usage of poor mortar, improper
to cut out and replace the cracked bricks. filling or action of frost or fire or unknown ele-
ments of nature, the joints shall be raked
b) If the cracks arc wide, the two portions can thoroughly to a depth oi at least 20 mm and the
be stitched by inserting bond stone or prc- raked joints caulked with mortar and the brick-
cast reinforced concrete blocks at suitable work pointed. Care shall be taken to avoid the
intervals. The cracks shall then be grduted. usage of a strong mortar for caulking purposes.
Sufficient care has to be taken in preparing The patch work shall be properly cured
the precast concrete blocks so that the ( S86 11.10).

23
18 2212: 1991 .

ANNEX ;h
( Clause 2 )

LIST OF REFERRED INDIAN STANDARDS

IS No. Tide IS No. lifts

226 : 1975 Structural steel ( standard quality ) 1580 : 1969 Bitumen compounds for water-
( jiih revision ) proofing and caulking purposes
269 : 1976 Ordinary and low heat Portland ( jirst revision )
cement ( third reuision ) 1630 : 1984 Masons tools for plaster work and
Coarse and fine aggregates from pointing work ( jrst revision )
383 : 1970
natural sources for concrete ( second 1635 : 1975 Code of practice for field slaking of
f&on ) building lime and preparation of
Lead sheet and strip : Part II For putty (jut rdoision ) .
405
(P;9721 : other than chemical purposes 1642 : 1988 Qode of practice for fire safety of
( second revision ) buildings ( general ) : Materials
Expanded metal steel sheets for and detaib of construction (jrst
412 : 1975
feoision )
general putposer ( second retion )
1649 : 1962 Code of practice design and cons-
432 Mild steel and medium tensile steel
truction of flues and chimneys for
( Part8; ) : bars and hard drawn steel wire for
domestic heating appliances (&St
concrete reinforcement : Part 1
revision )
Mild steel and medium tensile
steel bars ( third revision ) 1904 : 1986 Code of practice for design and
construction of foundations in soils:
432 Mild steel and medium tensile steel General requirement ( third remsion)
(Py;A): bars and hard drawn steel wire for
1905 : 1987 Code of practice for structural
concrete reinforcement : Part 2
use of unreinforced masonry ( third
Hard drawn steel wire ( third
revision )
revision )
1950 : 1962 Code of practice for sound insula-
455 : 1976 Portland slag cement ( third rtiion )
tion of non-industrial buildings
456 : 1978 Code of practice for plain and rein- 2115 : 1980 Code of practice for flat-roof finish,
forced concrete ( third raGion ) mud phusJta ( second reuision )
712 : 1984 Building limes ( third revision ) 2116: 1980 Sand for masonry mortars (&t
1077 : 1991 Common burnt clay building bricks revision )
(Jifth revision ) 2118 : 1980 Code of actice for construction of
jack-ar CF type of building Aoor or
1080 : 1985 Code of practice for design and roof (jifd r&on )
construction of shalJow foundations
in soils ( other than raft, ring and 2180 : 1988 Heavy duty burnt clay building
shell ) ( second mision ) bricks ( third m&ion )

1081 : 1960 Code of practice for fixing and 2250 : 1981 Code of ractice for preparation
glazing of metal ( steel and alu- and use o P masonry mortars (first
miniurn doors, windows and revision )
ventilators ) 3466 : 1988 Masonry cement ( second revision )
1212 : 1978 Methods for testing tar and bitu- 3792 : 1978 Guide for heat insulation of non-
minous materials : Determination industrial buildings (Jirst revision )
of loss on heating (jrst reuision ) 3812 : 1981 Fly ash for use as pozzolana and
admixture ( JirJt recision )
1322 : 1982 Bitumen felts for water-proofing and
damp-proo6ng ( third revision ) 4098 : 1983 Lime-pozzolana mixture ( first
revision )
1344 : 1981 CaJcined cJay pozzoJana ( second
4913 : 1968 Code of practice for selection ins-
revision )
tallation and maintenance of
1489 : 1976 Portland-pozzolana cement ( second timber doors and windows
m&ion ) 8041 : 1978 Rapid hardening Portland cement
1566 : 1982 Hard-drawn steel wire fabric for ( jirst revision )
concrete reinforcement ( second 8013 : 1978 Hydrophobic Portland cement (Jkst
revision ) revision )

24
Bureau of Indian Staudrrdr

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development of the activities of standardization, marking and quality cert&cation of goods and attending to
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copyright be addressed to the Director (Publications), BIS.

Review of Indian Standards

Amendments are issued to standards as the need arises on the basis of comments. Standardsiare also reviewed
periodically; a standard along with amendments is reafftrmed when such review indicates that no changes are
need&, if the review indicates that changes are needed, it is taken up for revision. Users of Indian Standards
should ascertain that they are in possession of the latest amendments or edition by referring to the latest issue
of BIS Handbook and Standards : Monthly Additions.

This Indian Standard has been developed from Dot : No. CED 13 ( 4782 ).

Amendments Issued Since Publication

Amund No. Date of Issue Text Affected

BUREAU OF INDIAN STANDARDS

Headquarters:
Manak Bhavan, 9 Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, New Delhi 110002 Telegrams: Manaksanstha
Telephones : 323 01 31, 323 94 02, 323 33 75 ( Common to
all offices )
Regional Cl&es: Telephone
Central : Manak Bhavan, 9 Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg 323 76 17
NEW DELHI 110002 323 3841

Eastern : l/l4 C. I. T. Scheme VII M, V. I. P. Road, Maniktola 337 84 99,337 85 61

CALCUTTA 700054 337 86 26, 337 86 62
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